The final day of the Test between England and West Indies at lords is set up for a thrilling finish, barring rain interruptions. The Windies are chasing 401 to win and if they get off to a good start, anything is possible as England are a bowler short and Harmison's woeful form on the international stage continues.
Monty Panesar took the plaudits with a six wicket haul after talk of leaving him out before the start of the Test due to unhelpful conditions for a spinner. Monty has demonstrated again that a good spinner can take wickets in any conditions. The normally quiet and unassuming character comes to life at a fall of a wicket as he carries out his extravagant celebrations, running and leaping up in the air excitedly chased by his beaming team mates. He is totally focused on his task and it must be great for a captain to have someone who he can rely on to come on at one end and not only keep it tight but take wickets. His game has come on leaps and bounds ( no pun intended) in all areas, especially fielding and batting, since his debut in India in 2006.
The second half of the day was dominated by Kevin Pietersen, who scored an entertaining century. He brought the game alive, after starting slowly, but working up to an exhilarating pace, ignited by his duel with Chris Gayle. Pietersen likes a challenge and nothing gets those juices going than the opposition getting stuck into him. A bit of friendly banter is always entertaining and adds that extra spark to proceedings. The normally cool Gayle was quite emotive but Pietersen won the battle this time as he plundered runs all round the park. He reached his hundred and there was almost a lack of celebration as if it was all so easy.
It remains to be seen who will steal the show today as the stage is set fair for a winning bowling or batting display and end up victorious.
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